Staying Safe at the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is considered one of New York City’s most popular parades, drawing in as many as 2 million spectators every year. Unlike some of New York’s other famous parades, the St. Patrick’s Day event has no giant floats traveling down the city streets. However, attendees should remember that there are always safety risks at a massive public event. Taking precautions should always be a priority for anyone who attends the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

The 2019 St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held on Saturday, March 16 from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. EST. It can be viewed along 5th Avenue between 44th and 79th Streets.

Tips on NYC Parade Safety

Even without large floats and balloons, the St. Patrick’s Day parade has its own hazards. Loud music from the marching bands can prevent spectators from hearing warnings of surrounding dangers. Swarming crowds can hinder visibility when walking on sidewalks and roads, where there could be uneven pavement that could cause you to slip and fall. And even though alcohol consumption is prohibited on parade routes, St. Patrick’s Day is a popular day for drinking. Drunk driving accidents and pedestrian accidents are common causes of parade injuries.

Given the heavy traffic volume, pedestrian congestion around the city and the fact that major routes will be shut down for much of the day, a lot of things can go wrong at a parade.

Here are some tips for enjoying yourSt. Patrick’s Day Parade safely:

Arrive early — That gives you a chance to pick the safest viewing point for you and your family.

Use public transportation or a rideshare if possible ― Leaving the car, motorcycle or bicycle at home will be safer on crowded streets.

Avoid parking close to the event — Fewer obstacles, including pedestrians, will be in your path if you park further away.

Don’t drink ― Public drunkenness is against the law in New York City.

Remain alert to your surroundings ― It will be more difficult to spot hazards on a busy parade route.

Use crosswalks — The usual crosswalks may be blocked off to accommodate parade traffic, so look for the detours and use those areas to cross.

Don’t lean on barricades ― Toppling a barricade could suddenly put you in the direct path of the parade or oncoming vehicles.

Carry a backpack — Include water and first-aid supplies in case of an accident.

What to Do if You Are Injured in a NYC Parade

If you or a family member is hurt in a New York parade accident, follow these steps:

Seek medical attention ― Even if you feel fine, there may be internal injuries that you aren’t immediately aware of.

Gather as much information as you can — Get contact and insurance information from the people involved in the accident, as well as any witnesses.

Contact law enforcement ― An officer can complete a police report that can be helpful if you need to file a legal claim later.

Contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Belluck & Fox — You may be entitled to compensation to help with the cost of medical care and other losses related to the accident.

How Can Belluck & Fox Help Me?

Belluck & Fox has been helping injured people in and around New York City for more than two decades. Our dedicated attorneys have the knowledge, experience and resources needed to collect maximum compensation for our clients.

Our law firm offers free consultations to people who have been harmed in parade accidents. To learn about your legal rights, contact Belluck & Fox today. There is no obligation and you don’t pay unless we recover compensation on your behalf, so there’s no reason to wait.